How to grow Guanyin Su orchid? Care tips and propagation methods

Many flower enthusiasts do not know how to grow Guanyin Su orchid. In fact, the method is very simple, nothing more than potting soil, watering, light, temperature and fertilizing. When grown well, it blooms easily, and its fragrance is rich, making it deeply loved by the public. The propagation methods for Guanyin Su orchid are generally seed sowing and division propagation, and they root very easily.

I. Care tips for Guanyin Su orchid 1. Pot and soil selection

The pot that Guanyin Su needs is best fairly loose and breathable, which helps with drainage. Commonly used pots are clay pots, ceramic pots and purple clay pots. As for the soil specially used for orchids, it is generally made by mixing several media, such as small stones, tree bark, plus leaf mold and peat soil.

2. Water appropriately

Guanyin Su orchid has a very strong water storage capacity and is fairly drought-tolerant but not tolerant of waterlogging. In spring and autumn, water 2 to 3 times a week; in summer under high temperatures, water once a day to keep the medium moist but not waterlogged; in winter, water less, once a week is enough. When the temperature is low or on rainy days, water less.

3. Suitable light

Guanyin Su prefers shade and is fairly sensitive to light. Normally it cannot receive direct strong light and needs appropriate shading. Generally, giving Guanyin Su the mild morning and evening sunlight is enough. The midday sun or summer sun is too strong and easily scorches the leaves. It is best to place it in a spot with scattered sunlight.

4. Control the temperature

The most suitable temperature for Guanyin Su growth is between 18 and 30°C. In summer, when the temperature is above 30°C, Guanyin Su needs appropriate shading, and it should be placed in a cool, ventilated place to pass the summer. In winter, when the temperature is below 5°C, Guanyin Su grows very slowly, so it must be placed indoors for the winter to avoid frost damage or freezing to death.

5. Fertilize reasonably

Orchids fairly like fertilizer. During the growth period, apply nitrogen fertilizer once every half month, and before the flowering period switch to applying phosphorus and potassium fertilizer to promote flowering. Follow the principle of light fertilizer applied frequently. If too much fertilizer is applied, it may cause root burn and root rot. Now that you know how to grow Guanyin Su orchid, you can also carry out appropriate propagation.

II. Propagation methods for Guanyin Su orchid 1. Seed propagation

When sowing, the seeds need to be germinated with orchid mycorrhizal fungi. Soak the seeds in a culture bottle containing culture medium, then place it at a temperature of 25°C. After the seeds sprout, exposure to light allows them to form protocorms, after which they can be transplanted for growth.

2. Division propagation

Choose a suitable mother plant of Guanyin Su, then separate part of the root system and remove it, carefully cut off rotten roots and withered leaves, clean the root system with water, and after drying it in a cool, ventilated place, it can be potted. Since the divisions come with roots, the small plants separated out can grow normally in about a week.

III. Prevention and control of common pests and diseases 1. Scale insects

The most common pest of Guanyin Su orchid is scale insects. Under conditions of poor light transmission and ventilation and excessive watering, it is most susceptible to scale insect damage. When pests are found, they need to be killed promptly. An appropriate amount of omethoate solution can be sprayed for control and elimination.

2. Southern blight

Guanyin Su is very prone to southern blight during the plum rain season. After becoming diseased, the potting soil that already carries pathogens should be replaced promptly, then lime powder should be sprinkled for disinfection. Normally, light transmission and ventilation need to be increased, and the soil should be kept with good drainage to prevent disease.